The university nerves and excitement have kicked in and first semester is in full swing. So, though you may not yet be considering leaving the university area as you navigate your new life here in Birmingham, here are a select few places that you should certainly consider visiting when you feel like exploring yet another new place!

1. Birmingham City Centre

Though this one seems pretty obvious, whether you are a Brummie or you have navigated New Street Station in your efforts to reach campus, there are lots of areas to the city centre which are integral parts to the city. Yes, you have the Bullring – perfect for all of your shopping needs – and Victoria Square – home to the council house, the ‘Floozie in the Jacuzzi’, and the seasonal German Market – but there is so much more suited to everybody’s needs. Brindleyplace is brilliant for food and drinks of any cuisine or culture, and since Birmingham is renowned for its culinary scene, you cannot go wrong here. You also have the Rep and Symphony Hall, where you can catch plays and concerts respectively all year round. Make sure, too, to check out The Exchange, a University of Birmingham-owned old bank which is now home to a beautiful coffee shop where you can catch up with friends or get productive.

2. Digbeth

Just a short walk from Birmingham New Street, this up-and-coming area of Birmingham may be rather unassuming from the outside. But once you step into Digbeth, you will find a much more eccentric and creative area focused on independent businesses, thrifting, and activity-based establishments perfect for making memories in with new friends. Think NQ64 for gaming-themed cocktails and old arcade machines, Chance and Counters for great food and an abundance of board games, and Golf Fang with its unique themes flowing through its course. On top of this, you have bars such as The Rainbow and Dead Wax, clubs like Mama Roux’s, and food spots such as Hanbao and Café Love Life. Not forgetting the Redbrick Market, a warehouse full to the brim of independent sellers offering handmade jewellery, posters and vintage clothing, just to name a few.

3. Lichfield

If you fancy a much more relaxed and cultural day, head over to Lichfield, situated just over the border in Staffordshire.  It is at the end of the line of the West Midlands Railway cross-city service. Be sure to explore the ever-mesmerising Lichfield Cathedral, Beacon Park which is ever in bloom, and the culturally immersive Samuel Johnson House and Erasmus Darwin house.

4. Worcester

Located along the River Severn, Worcester is yet another historical and slower-paced city where you can unwind and walk the streets lined with Tudor-style buildings. Be sure to visit Worcester Cathedral, take a walk along the River Severn and check out its swathes of charity shops and pick up a bargain! Nearby is also the Malvern Hills, perfect for nature lovers wishing to hike to their heart’s desire.

5. Sutton Park

Though currently Sutton Coldfield town centre is nothing to write home about, Sutton Park is a must visit! As one of the biggest parks in the UK, you can really let yourself get lost in the woodland and muddy paths that Sutton Park is completely covered in. Within the park sits The Bracebridge Restaurant and the Blackroot Bistro, perfect for a light lunch or a coffee on a blustery autumnal day. Additionally, Exmore ponies roam freely around the park and have a rather calming presence. And if you are a fan of dogs, you are in luck: Sutton Park is a popular spot amongst dog owners.

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